Breastfeeding Drives 73% of Mother-to-Child HIV Infections in Uganda

Breastfeeding has emerged as the primary route for mother-to-child HIV transmission in Uganda, accounting for approximately 73% of such infections in 2025. This figure represents an increase from 61% in the previous year, according to a recent Ministry of Health assessment. Health officials are concerned that mothers discontinuing their antiretroviral treatment or contracting HIV after childbirth are contributing significantly to this trend.

While Uganda has made progress in reducing vertical HIV transmission by over 80% since 2010, the shift in transmission patterns presents new challenges. Infections occurring during pregnancy are also linked to treatment dropouts, but the post-birth period via breastfeeding now dominates the transmission landscape.

The Busoga region, in particular, is facing considerable hurdles in preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission, scoring below the national average in elimination program performance. Key issues include delayed antenatal care visits, with only 43% of mothers attending in their first trimester, and insufficient completion of recommended antenatal care contacts.

Furthermore, gaps in facility deliveries, infant antiretroviral prophylaxis initiation, and timely DNA PCR testing for infants are hindering progress. Shortages of essential commodities like HIV testing kits and nevirapine syrup have also been reported, impacting the effectiveness of interventions.

To combat these challenges, the Ministry of Health plans to provide targeted support to high-burden districts and facilities, improve data management, and ensure the consistent availability of necessary supplies. Maintaining treatment adherence for mothers and ensuring prompt prophylaxis and testing for exposed infants are crucial steps towards achieving the elimination of mother-to-child HIV transmission.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)